AOC Reimagined, a long-term, strategic plan development process for the member-driven Association of Oregon Counties (AOC), begins its second leg of the planning process – and the clear goal is inclusivity.

“Member voices are the key ingredient for the recipe of creating a successful organization and path forward,” said AOC President and Umatilla County Commissioner George Murdock. Murdock, who in his capacity as AOC President, leads AOC Reimagined as a part of the AOC President’s Initiative.

In phase two of this multifaceted process, Murdock has developed a number of opportunities for members to provide input on AOC’s goals. Beginning this month through June, existing member committees are convening to develop goal statements and strategies to accomplish goals that align with the body of work of the respective committee.

In his vision, Murdock intends to maximize opportunities for members to weigh in on what they want their association to look like illustrated during the collaborative membership retreat where the process was initiated.

Ranging from organizational needs to impacts with the State Legislature, Murdock notes, “we have some serious threats and challenges facing AOC, but the good news is that it is within our power to resolve everything that confronts us. I believe that through meaningful membership engagement, we can become a stronger organization.”

Membership goals will be developed from the themes identified during AOC’s March 15 retreat facilitated by Salam Noor.

Themes and committee review assignments include:

  • Leadership, Advocacy, and Policy (brand and reputation)

    • Legislative Committee (June 15)

  • Strategic Partnerships: AOC – State Relationship

    • Legislative Committee (June 15)

  • Engagement, Communication, Collaboration, and Unity (while appreciating diversity)

    • Membership Committee (May 11, June 3)

  • Professional Development/Learning and Resources (capacity building)

    • Membership Committee (May 11, June 3)

  • Financial Stability (Organizational viability)

    • Budget and Finance Committee (June 24)

  • Cross-County Collaborative/Collaboration—Innovation in problem-solving.

    • County Solutions Advisory Committee (June 3, June 24)

    • Oregon Association of Engineers and Surveyors (May 17)

Finally, the plan will be reviewed during the July AOC Board of Directors meeting, AOC district meetings in the fall, and final presentation of the plan will be made during the AOC Annual Conference providing ample engagement opportunities for members to share their vision.

“It is my hope that we will have the effort completed and ready to present to the membership at our conference in November. It will then be turned over to First Vice-President Derrick DeGroot and Second Vice-President Danielle Bethell for implementation. I personally hope to attend every district meeting next fall in a further effort to further engage as many members as possible,” said Murdock.

For more information on meeting dates and details, visit AOC’s event calendar.

Contributed by: Megan Chuinard | Public Affairs Associate